Evolution

The Origin of Whales

Whales or cetaceans are believed to have evolved from an extinct group of land mammals called "Mesonyx", which are also considered to be the ancestors of deer, camels, pigs, cows and hippos. The Mesonyx had wolf-like proportions, long limbs and walked on their fingers and toes.

Adapting to Live in Water

The earliest whales appeared approximately 50 Mio. years ago. Since then, a number of whale-like animals evolved, with further adaptations to life in the water. They developed a streamlined body shape together with a pronounced skull and protruding jaws. The forelimbs became paddle-like flippers, still containing the fingers of their ancestors. The nostrils migrated to the top of the head and the external ear flaps disappeared. 

Species and Families 

About 80 species are currently known, divided into the two suborders: toothed whales or baleen whales. Deriving from the same ancestor, the deviation time for the split is not yet determined.